What happens when a productivity expert and a focus coach talk honestly about the role social media plays in our lives?

In this episode, Brian sits down with Penny Zenker to have a real conversation about how platforms like Instagram, LinkedIn, and Facebook affect our attention, stress levels, and time. They don’t hold back. Penny admits she’s been thinking about walking away from it altogether. Brian shares his frustration with AI-generated content and the constant noise in his feed.

They explore how social media can be both helpful and harmful, and what it means to use it with intention. Penny shares her Reset Mindset framework and talks about how to refocus when life and technology pull you in every direction. They also get into the difference between attention and focus—and why that distinction really matters.

You’ll hear laughter, honest disagreement, and some ideas that might just change how you interact with your phone.

Want to go deeper? Check out the show notes and resources linked in the episode!

References In This Episode

Penny Zenker – pennyskeynote.com
(Main website for Penny’s keynotes, workshops, Reset Mindset framework, and booking info)

The Reset Mindset Book – Learn More
Penny’s award-winning book that shares practical strategies to help people reset, realign, and refocus in high-stress, high-distraction environments.

Penny Zenker’s Linkedin Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pennyzenker

Brian’s TEDx Talk – “The Value of Your Time” – Watch on YouTube
Brian talks about time as our most precious resource, and why being intentional matters more than being busy.

Taja.ai – taja.ai
The AI tool that sparked this episode’s debate. It repurposes YouTube videos into social media content—helpful for productivity, but also raises questions about authenticity and noise.

Duolingo – duolingo.com
Mentioned as a smarter way to spend a few minutes on your phone compared to endless scrolling. A reminder that learning something new can be a great way to reset your habits.

Screen Time Tools –

Apple iOS Screen Time

Digital Wellbeing on Android
Check how much time you’re spending on social apps—and decide if that aligns with what matters to you.

Productivity Gladiator Blog Post - How Many Hours Do You Spend On Social Media?

Productivity Gladiator Blog Post - Addiction To Social Media: Fix It With Apps and Tech Hacks

Productivity Gladiator Blog Post - Addiction to Social Media & Free Hacks To Fix It

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Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Debate on Social Media

04:45 The Impact of Social Media on Productivity

07:31 AI's Influence on Social Media Perspectives

14:17 Personal Use of Social Media: Should You Quit?

25:17 Professional Use of Social Media: The Business Perspective

29:40 The Power of Focused Efforts

31:34 Building Meaningful Connections

36:29 Referrals and Customer Relationships

41:08 Assessing Social Media's Value

45:17 Recognizing Productivity Killers

47:22 Taking Action for Change

54:48 The Reset Mindset and Future Directions

Today’s Guest

Penny Zenker

Keynote Speaker, Focus Expert, Productivity Strategist

Penny Zenker is an international keynote speaker, bestselling author, and the creator of the Reset Mindset—a practical framework that helps people regain control of their time, energy, and attention. Known as The Focusologist, Penny teaches leaders and teams how to eliminate distractions, reduce stress, and stay aligned with what matters most.

With a background as a successful tech entrepreneur and strategic business coach, Penny blends big-picture thinking with tactical insight. Her talks and trainings challenge conventional ideas about productivity and help people shift from busy to intentional. Her TEDx talk, featured by Success Magazine, highlights the power of choice in driving performance.

Penny has been featured on major media outlets including NBC News, Forbes, and Inc. She works with global brands, fast-moving teams, and purpose-driven individuals who want to create more focus and less friction in their work and life.

Connect with Penny:LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/pennyzenker

Website: pennyskeynote.com

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